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Carlsberg Britvic has been named the first occupier of the West Midlands Interchange (WMI), a £2 billion logistics hub under development by Oxford Properties and Logistics Capital Partners (LCP).

The beverage company is set to invest £4 million in a new 222,000sqft depot strategically located at Junction 12 of the M6, just under 10 miles from its existing Wolverhampton facility.

Construction of the new depot is slated to begin later this year, with operations expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026. During the construction phase, Carlsberg Britvic will maintain operations at its current site without interruption. Once the new facility opens, logistics operations will transition to the WMI site in a managed process.

The new depot is designed to meet the specific needs of Carlsberg Britvic, featuring state-of-the-art facilities aimed at enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of its operations. The facility is targeting a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating and aims to be Net Zero Carbon Aligned, incorporating energy-efficient technologies and optimised roof space for photovoltaic panels.

This development represents a significant step in Carlsberg Britvic's growth strategy, particularly following its formation in 2024 from the merger of Carlsberg Marston's Brewing Company and Britvic. The company has already invested over £6 million in upgrading its Burton Brewery, underscoring its commitment to enhancing its UK operations.

Paul Davies, CEO of Carlsberg Britvic, noted the importance of the new depot for the company’s logistics infrastructure, stating: “This investment underscores our long-term commitment to strengthening our operations and enhancing service to our customers.” He said that the Interchange's location is ideal for supporting sustainable growth.

The West Midlands Interchange is poised to become a pivotal logistics development in the UK, with LCP highlighting its potential to decarbonise logistics and support the country's broader net zero goals. The site is expected to create approximately 8,500 direct jobs, contributing to the local economy and providing opportunities in South Staffordshire, the Black Country and the surrounding areas.

Minister for Investment Baroness Poppy Gustafsson CBE remarked on the significance of Carlsberg Britvic's investment, viewing it as a positive indicator of economic confidence and a boost for the UK logistics sector. “This new logistics depot will not only enhance the UK’s logistics capabilities but also deliver long-term, stable growth that supports skilled jobs and raises living standards across the UK.”

As the first tenant at the West Midlands Interchange, Carlsberg Britvic’s commitment to sustainability aligns with the strategic vision for the site, which aims to integrate advanced logistics solutions with environmentally responsible practices. The collaboration between Carlsberg Britvic and the WMI developers marks a significant milestone for both parties, reinforcing the importance of sustainable logistics in the food and beverage sector.